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West Ham are reportedly looking at alternative midfield options as they continue to pursue Celtic’s Arne Engels. ExWHUEmployee reports that Rennes midfielder Jordan James and Hibernian’s Josh Mulligan are among the other names being considered by West Ham. That could become significant if Celtic continue to hold firm over Engels. The Hoops have shown little desire to let the 22-year-old leave cheaply and are understood to value him at around £25 million. There is also the added complication of Celtic’s upcoming Champions League play-off against LASK. Reports have suggested Celtic would prefer to keep Engels available for that tie before considering any potential departure later in the window. That could force West Ham to decide whether they are prepared to wait or move more seriously for another midfielder. James and Mulligan would represent very different options. James has experience in France with Rennes, while Mulligan has built his reputation in Scottish football with Hibernian. For Celtic, West Ham identifying alternatives does not necessarily mean their interest in Engels has ended. But it does show the English side are keeping other routes open while negotiations around the Belgian remain difficult. Engels has started Celtic’s opening two Premiership games and produced an excellent performance in the 5-1 victory over Kilmarnock at Rugby Park. His future is also closely linked to Celtic’s own midfield recruitment. That leaves Celtic balancing several moving parts. Keeping Engels through the LASK games would strengthen Martin O’Neill’s options for a crucial European tie, but delaying any decision could also affect their chances of moving for a replacement. West Ham, meanwhile, appear to be preparing for both possibilities by keeping James and Mulligan on their list while their interest in Engels remains unresolved.